February / March 2020 issue of the independent North Devon-based business magazine covering news about business and enterprise in Barnstaple, Bideford, Braunton, Chulmleigh, Combe Martin, Holsworthy, Ilfracombe, Lynmouth, Lynton, South Molton, Torrington, Woolacombe and more.
This issue includes the Business Action Awards 2020, North Devon's independent business awards.
usiness
ACTION
north enterprise
devon
growth
innovation
news & views
Wake up a winner
Enter Business Action Awards
Business events
From advice to training
Data protection
Easy ways to comply with regulations
Be Ready, be accessible
Boost disabled employment and sales
business-action.co.uk | February / March 2020 | @businessactionm
CONTENTS
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Web site | business-action.co.uk
Online version | business-action.uk
Vol 2 Issue 1 – February / March 2020 – distribution 2,500
You have to be in it to win it............................................................................ 1
Independent food firm expands UK reach................................................ 2
Award win for manufacturer........................................................................... 2
New year, new office for design agency.................................................... 3
Business group’s new chairman.................................................................. 3
Flower shop blooms under new ownership............................................. 4
Bring Your Dog to Work Day sponsor........................................................ 4
Be Ready to attract more Purple Pounds................................................. 5
BBxpo earlybird exhibition stand offer...................................................... 5
Privacy: sorting fact from fiction.................................................................. 6
Business Action advertising plans.............................................................. 7
Making accurate sales predictions.............................................................. 7
Healthy life, healthy business........................................................................ 8
Business directory – find products and services................................. 9
Business Action Awards 2020....................................................................... 10
Headline sponsor................................................................................................. 11
Awards categories and sponsors................................................................. 12
Top tips on winning business awards........................................................ 17
In the hot seat: Jason Sharman of Atlas Packaging............................ 18
Are you still typing invoice data into your accounts?......................... 19
From £10 to £1 million #10to1m.................................................................... 19
Hotel events support local food producers............................................. 20
Petroc: technology centre launch, business drop-ins
and apprenticeship event................................................................................. 20
Devon Chamber Access to Finance Fair................................................... 21
International trade training ............................................................................. 21
© Need it Find it 2020. All information in this magazine is published in good faith.
Any views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher, Need it Find it.
Readers are strongly recommended to seek advice from an appropriate professional
before taking any action on any topic discussed in the magazine and to check full
terms and conditions of any products or services promoted in advertisements.
Set Your
Business
Apart
The UK’s Largest
Trading Standards Run
Business Approval Scheme
ii
Backed by more than 50 local authority
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Buy With Confidence supports honest
and trustworthy businesses, setting your
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Find out more: www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
ENTERPRISE
business
ACTION
You have to be in it to win it
On Thursday 5 December
2019, Alan Williams and
Robert Zarywacz shared
copies of Business Action with
businesses from across the UK
at Small Business Saturday’s
House of Lords reception for its
#SmallBiz100 winners.
Business Action was only
able to win because we entered.
We won in 2019, so which
North Devon business can win
in 2020? We’ll only have another
winner if you enter.
That is why we have
launched our own business
awards – to encourage more
North Devon businesses to
seek recognition by entering
the many sector and regional,
national and international business
awards programmes.
If you haven’t ever entered
an award or think that you
have no chance of winning, you
need to do two things:
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY #SMALLBIZ100
Robert Zarywacz
Editor, Designer & Publisher
t: 07971 176044
e: robertz@business-action.co.uk
@robertz
1. Enter the Business Action
Awards – 11 categories
covering every type of business
– see page 10.
Alan Williams
Advertising, Distribution & Publisher
t: 07970 671192
e: alan@business-action.co.uk
2. Read Denise O’Leary’s
book ‘WINNING – How to
Win Business Awards’ – see
page 17 to read Denise’s top
tips on entering awards and
a review of her book.
In the spotlight
We hope our awards will
inspire you to put your business
in the spotlight, locally
and further afield.
At the same time, we will
continue to feature businesses
across the area in this magazine
and look forward to even more
stories of achievement in 2020.
We think what makes Business
Action different is that we
include all businesses, from
individuals just starting out to
bigger, established business.
We don’t charge for editorial
coverage, as we believe in
publishing stories that deserve
to be told.
That is why we are so
grateful to all our advertisers
who enable us to publish Business
Action for you.
BUSINESS
DIRECTORY
BUSINESS
SUPPORT
Many businesses are worried
about the implications of
employing an individual with
a disability when they can
often be the most committed
employees, needing less
practical adjustments in the
workplace than imagined.
Devon’s ‘Be Ready’
Employer Hub is launching in
April to help employers take on
more people with disabilities
for the benefit of both.
It will also help businesses
tap into the Purple Pound – the
£249 billion a year that disabled
people, their families and
friends spend with businesses.
Read about how ‘Be Ready’
can help your business.
>>> PAGE 5
Promoting your business
without spending a fortune is
what many businesses seek,
especially when starting up.
We’re now developing our
business directory in this
magazine, which gives you
a listing including contact
details for six issues (over one
year) for £50.
Businesses also receive a
listing at needitfindit.uk as
well as a copy of each magazine
mailed direct to their
address every two months.
All our promotional
packages are designed to be
affordable so that any business
can promote themselves
throughout the year.
>>> PAGE 9
Awards offer an opportunity
to promote your business more
widely and the Business Action
Awards offer 11 categories for
you to enter.
These are outlined in this
section so that you can see
which awards are suitable for
you to enter. Businesses based
in or operating in North Devon
can enter as many categories as
they like.
There are also profiles of
our generous awards sponsors,
without whom these awards
would not take place.
Plus there’s tips on entering
awards if you have never put
your business forward before.
Good luck!
Development is vital for every
business and there is a wide
range of events and training
available from a number of
organisations.
This issue we focus on food
and drink events hosted by the
Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe
to increase support for local
foods producers.
We also feature two Devon
Chamber initiatives covering
finance and international
trade training.
Plus there’s a number of
events at Petroc, including
the launch of its new Cotie
technology centre, its apprenticeship
event and regular
business drop-in sessions.
>>> PAGES 10 – 17 >>> PAGES 20 – 21
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 1
NEWS
Finding Jobs for People and People for Jobs
Temporary & Permanent recruitment solutions throughout North Devon!
01237 439500
Independent food firm expands UK reach
Family-owned food
wholesaler Philip Dennis
Foodservice has invested £1.5
million in a new transport
and warehousing depot in the
West Midlands.
With depots in the South
West, Oxfordshire and
Midlands, the business has
invested heavily in its infrastructure
and people over the
last year to support its ambitious
growth plans.
The purchase of the new
premises on Shaw Road,
Dudley comes as the company
is seeing a significant increase
in its foodservice business
particularly across pubs,
restaurants, hotels, schools
and coffee shops.
Lisa Vermeulen, Philip
Dennis Foodservice regional
sales manager for the
Midlands, says: “This is a very
exciting time for the business.
Ilfracombe-based TDK-
Lambda UK was named Tech
Company of the Year at the
recent Tech South West Awards
2019, which celebrate the
region’s fastest growing sector.
TDK-Lambda won the
award in the category for
companies with a revenue of
more than £5 million per year,
beating competition from
fellow finalists Amdaris and
Open Bionics.
The company was
commended for its commitment
to developing its
Ilfracombe facility. Following
recent investment, the site has
a £1.2 million EMC centre,
which enables the company to
carry out essential EMC testing
in-house in order to provide
customers with an even more
comprehensive service. The
www.simplerecruitmentltd.co.uk
Philip Dennis Foodservice’s Midlands sales team: (from left)
Jacob McCathie, Kim Smith, John Bateman, Lisa Vermeulen and Steve Redding
We’ve invested heavily in this
new depot as we’ve seen a
large increase in demand for
Philip Dennis products within
the area. The business has
experienced rapid growth in
recent years, and we wanted
company has also recently
invested in new equipment,
including a state-of-the-art
Yamaha 3D optical inspection
a base in the West Midlands
that would allow us to offer an
increased level of service to
our customers.”
The location of the new
premises also offers easier
access for the company’s
Award win for manufacturer
Tech Company of the Year 2019: (from left) Martin Coates, engineering project
manager and Alex Knill, product performance manager, TDK-Lambda UK
system, to further enhance
product quality.
Geoff Wilby, managing
director at TDK-Lambda UK,
Follow us:
distribution fleet. Philip
Dennis Foodservice logistics
manager Lyndon Didlock
adds: “We’re always looking
to improve the level of our
delivery service and with the
central location of the new
depot we can now manage our
fleet much more effectively.”
Philip Dennis Foodservice
is a member of the Caterforce
buying group and supplies
a full range of foodservice
products including groceries,
frozen and chilled food, as
well as a range of non-food
items such as cleaning solutions
and environmentally
friendly food cartons. It also
offers bespoke butchery and
fishmonger services through
its Dennis Family Butchers
and Dennis Family Fishmonger
companies.
■■Details 01271 864 136 or
philipdennis.co.uk
says: “We are honoured to
receive this award, and see it as a
testament to the work we’ve put
into developing our operations.
In the past year, we have made
significant investments not only
in new technology but also in
our facilities, for example, by
installing 90kW solar panels to
improve sustainability.
“We have also been
actively involved with local
STEM initiatives, such as the
recently announced South
West Institute of Technology,
to help nurture future talent
for the local industries. The
technology landscape in the
South West is seeing rapid
development, and we are
proud to be part of this vibrant
community.”
■■Details 01271 856600 or
uk.tdk-lambda.com
2
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
New year, new office
for design agency
The Federation of Small
Businesses has appointed Lee
Nathan as the new regional
chairman of its local teams
across the South West, from
Cornwall to Gloucester.
Lee’s creative design agency,
Studiovine, has offices in
Plymouth and Bristol.
The FSB is Britain’s biggest
business representation group
and the 35-year-old sees his
role as vital to ensuring the
needs of small businesses
throughout the South West
region remain firmly on the
radar of the powers-that-be.
term client relationships built
on customer service.
“Some of our clients have
been with me for over 20 years
now. It’s like working with
friends,” says Frank of Clevera’s
clients, “and makes coming to
the studio a real pleasure.”
This approach is very
important to Frank, who loves
running his own business and
living in North Devon. Being
happy, satisfied and providing
for family are key motivations,
and the resulting working
atmosphere generates work
for Clevera through repeat
business and referrals from
contented clients.
The new offices are also
creating new opportunities
and forging a closer working
relationship between Clevera
and Kameleon Digital, who
are moving to the top floor
of the Workhouse to make
collaboration even easier on
projects combining print and
digital activities for shared
NEWS
2020 has already brought big
changes for Barnstaple-based
design agency Clevera. After
closing the doors to their
old office for the Christmas
break, in January they opened
the doors to their brand new
offices at the Workhouse,
Brannam Square.
Owner Frank Stone has
lived and worked in Barnstaple
since early childhood and the
new premises mark the 20th
anniversary of him first setting
up in business, leading to the
formation of Clevera in 2012.
With a team of four focused
sharply on all aspects of design
and print, Clevera has worked
steadily to build up its clientele,
which includes local organisations
such as Webbers Estate
Agents, Castle Hill Estate and
Savona Food Service, as well
as international brands such as
Drayton Controls and ITT inc.
This reflects the outlook
of quietly-spoken Frank, who
believes in developing longclients.
With meeting facilities
providing space for working
on concepts together, Frank is
looking forward to the shared
environment boosting creative
output even further.
Now entering his third
Business group’s new chairman
Clevera’s multi-level creative workspace at the Workhouse, Brannam Square
decade in business in North
Devon, Frank welcomes clients
old and new to discuss their
design requirements at Clevera’s
new home.
■■Details 01271 346759 or
clevera.co.uk
Lee says: “I’m delighted to
have been appointed to this
key role and I hope the fact
that I am in my 30s sends a
positive and clear sign that
the FSB is a forward-thinking
organisation determined to do
everything to help and support
our members whatever their
background or business.
Lee was the youngest
person to hold senior FSB
member positions in Devon
and is now the youngest FSB
regional chair across the whole
of the country.
■■Details fsb.org.uk
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 3
Retirement is a major challenge
the retail sector needs
to overcome. Many of our
finest shops have been run for
decades by owners who eventually
need to retire. Either
they have to find a buyer to
continue the business or else
close. Sadly, many good shops
close when new buyers cannot
be found. There is a need to
inspire more younger people
to come forward and continue
the great tradition of highquality
independent retailing.
This situation occurred
recently when the owner of
Exmoor Flowers, Stephanie
Kingston, decided to retire
after running the shop as a
newsagent and than as a florist
since 2005. Staff member
Laura Dyer was devastated
at the thought of not dealing
with flowers anymore and
ended up buying the business.
“I’d never thought about
running my own florist,”
says Laura. “I never had the
confidence to but, after a bit
of persuasion, guidance and
a good old confidence boost,
in September 2019 I bought
Exmoor Flowers and relocated
to 42 Lee Road, Lynton.”
Many of Laura’s family
had lived in Lynton for years
before her parents moved
there in 2006. She followed
and completed her degree in
theatre and performance at
Plymouth University and was
planning to return to London
Canine Cottages, operated by
The Travel Chapter in Bideford,
has been named headline
sponsor of national Bring Your
Dog To Work Day on 26 June.
This year the campaign will
be raising money for All Dogs
Matter and Animals Asia.
Simon Lockyer of Canine
until she married and had two
children. Her introduction
to Exmoor Flowers was as a
part-time assistant covering
a member of staff ’s sick leave,
but four years later she was a
full-time member of staff with
experienced knowledge of all
things floristry. After countless
weddings and funerals, Laura
loves her work so much that
she decided to buy the business
so that she could continue
doing what she loves.
“It was a massive step
for me. I was always used to
working for other people, but
with help and marketing from
NEWS
Flower shop blooms
under new ownership
Laura Dyer of Exmoor Flowers, Lynton
my husband, who works next
door to me, I slowly started
to grow more confidence and
get into the swing of being a
business owner.
“I knew that one of the
keys to success was social
media and from day dot I’ve
put almost every bouquet,
arrangement, wedding and
funeral tribute on my Instagram
and Facebook pages and
the clients came flooding in.
“My flowers come from a
wholesaler called St Mellion
Flowers based in Saltash,
Cornwall. They come to North
Devon several times a week
Bring your dog to work day sponsor
Cottages says: “We’ve been
taking part in Bring Your Dog
To Work Day for a number of
years now and are thrilled to
be the headline sponsors for
2020 to support the important
work of the two charities. We
specialise in taking dogs and
their humans on holiday, but of
course we can’t be on holiday
all the time, so the next best
thing is to be able to take your
dog to work.”
■■bringyourdogtoworkday.co.uk
with the freshest of flowers
from all over the world, but
mainly Holland and the UK.
“Red roses for Valentine’s
come from Colombia. They
are soil grown, not factory
produced, so they aren’t cheap,
but are exceptionally beautiful
and long lasting.
“I have a varied range of
customers from local hotels
and restaurants, to recurring
customers, local and
non-local.”
Laura adds that trends
change fast and that currently
English-grown flowers are
popular: “Bohemian/botanical
wild flowers, hedgerow, bushy
and plenty of foliage especially
eucalyptus – it’s everywhere
and every bride wants it!
“I’m constantly trying
to think of new and quirky
floristry ideas . . . pumpkin
arrangements at Halloween
were a massive hit – locals
went crazy for them. It was a
messy job, however.”
Laura works by herself,
although is supported by
her cousin for deliveries and
is delighted that Stephanie
helps her out when she needs
floristry advice.
“I have amazing friends and
family that are always around
for constant support. It’s hard
work getting the people in, but
I’ve never felt so happy.”
■■Details 01598 753 322 or
exmoorflowers.co.uk
Beautiful candles – Handmade in Devon
SHOWROOM & STUDIO
Lyn Candles . Lynton . N. Devon . EX35 6BS
Tel: 01598 753321 www.lyncandles.com
e-mail: lyncandles@btopenworld.com
4
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
NEWS
The Carlton, Ilfracombe
• 24 hour delegate rates available
• Fully catered team building
• Michelin dining experience
• Participative courses
• Business facilities
Call today for our training
packages, price & information
01271 862446 ilfracombecarlton.co.uk
Be Ready to attract more Purple Pounds
Devon’s ‘Be Ready’ Employer
Hub service is preparing its
formal launch around the
county with an event planned
for Barnstaple in April when
North Devon businesses, charities
and social enterprises are
invited to find out how it can
help them – watch for the date
here in Business Action.
The ‘Be Ready’ Employer
Hub aims to help employers
understand how they can
provide meaningful employment
opportunities for people
with a disability or long-term
health condition. Along with
practical assistance (via online
info hub and telephone helpline),
learning opportunities
(disability awareness training)
and networking opportunities
– all free – it will share facts and
figures to overcome the misconceptions
about employing
people with disabilities.
Did you know?
➤➤According to the Government’s
2018 Family
Resource Survey, there are
13.9 million disabled people
in the UK (ie individuals
who reported they have
a disability, which means
the actual number will be
higher). In the South West,
20% of the population are
disabled (just slightly below
the UK’s 21%).
➤➤In 2019, 7.6 million people
of working age (16-64)
reported having a disability
– 18% of the working age
population. BUT disabled
people have a much higher
rate of unemployment (8.0%
in January-March 2019
compared with 3.3% for
people without disabilities).
The majority of disabled
people want to work.
➤➤83% of disabilities are
gained while of working age.
➤➤By the year 2030, 40% of
working age adults will have
a long-term health condition.
If you think your business
would have to make big
changes to employ a person
with a disability, think again.
What do you think of
when the word ‘disability’ is
mentioned? Most of us think of
someone in a wheelchair – but
less than 10% of disabled people
are wheelchair users. 80% of
disabled people have invisible or
hidden disabilities (eg hearing
loss, Crohn’s and Colitis). And
often the changes needed are
minor – just as adaptations are
made for anyone joining as a
new employee.
Are you missing sales?
How well do you know your
customers? If a fifth of the UK
population has a disability,
how many of your existing
customers have a disability?
The ‘Be Ready’ Employer
Hub will also show businesses
how to access the ‘Purple
Pound’ market. This is the
spending power of disabled
people, their family and
friends, worth £249 billion a
year. By ignoring the needs of
disabled people, businesses are
losing money without knowing
it. For example, how accessible
is your web site? Up to 75% of
potential customers who are
disabled have walked away
from shops or clicked away
from web sites because of the
barriers put in their way.
Want to know more?
Get in touch with Debbie Stafford
(debbie.stafford@devon.
gov.uk) or project co-ordinator
Sue Windley (susan.windley@
devon.gov.uk).
■■Details readydevon.org.uk
Biggest local B2B
event returns on
Thursday 29 October
➤➤Where can you discover
new businesses and make
new contacts?
➤➤Where can you see a
showcase of products and
services of value to your
business?
➤➤Where can you find the
advice and support you
need to grow your North
Devon business?
Now in its third year, Bideford
Business Expo is North
Devon’s business exhibition
combining presentations,
promotion and networking to:
➤➤build business relationships
➤➤create new opportunities
➤➤provide business advice
➤➤support business growth
Earlybird stand prices
Exhibitor stands available now
at early bird prices – £75 and
£125 – when booked and paid
before 30 April 2020.
■■Book at bbxpo.uk
Friendly, Reliable, Affordable
• Accounts
• Bookkeeping
• Limited Companies • VAT
• Tax
• Payroll / CIS
Over 20 years experience - Free initial meeting
mail@garethpollardaccountancyservices.com
T: 01409 254817 M: 07811 164428
The Old Orchard | Holsworthy | Devon | EX22 6LT
Sunday Carvery £10.95
(£14.95 including desert)
01237 473399
49 Torrington Street, East the Water, EX39 4DP
www.theriverbankbistro.co.uk
email@theriverbankbistro.co.uk
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 5
PRIVACY
Privacy: sorting fact from fiction
Some 18 months after the
introduction of new data protection
legislation – General
Data Protection Regulation
(GDPR), Data Protection Act
2018 and Data Protection
(Charges and Information)
Regulations 2018 – on 25 May
2018, North Devon-based
data protection practitioner
Nigel Hellewell AMBCS is not
surprised that the myths surrounding
them are still ‘doing
the rounds’.
So what are some of the
common myths and how does
he respond?
The GDPR replaced the
Data Protection Act
With reference to the
updated guidance from the
UK supervisory authority’s
(ICO) web site, Nigel says:
The Data Protection Act
2018 (DPA2018) sets out the
framework for data protection
law in the UK. It updates and
replaces the Data Protection
Act 1998, and came into effect
in May 2018. It sits alongside
the GDPR, and tailors how the
GDPR applies in the UK – for
example, by providing exemptions.
It also updates the level
of some of the likely offences
from civil to criminal offences.
The data protection
legislation doesn’t apply to
sole traders
It applies to all organisations,
including sole traders and
micro businesses: there are no
exceptions. In fact, the ICO
provides a self-assessment
checklist that will help sole
traders and self-employed
individuals to assess their
compliance. They may also
have to pay the data protection
fee – part of the Data
Protection (Charges and
Information) Regulations
2018), although there are
exemptions to this.
I’ve only got a small web
site with a contact form
and email address. Surely
it doesn’t apply to that?
The data protection legislation
applies to any business activities,
whether operating a web
site or otherwise ‘processing
personal data’.
Nigel adds that, for many
people starting their business,
the data protection
and privacy legislation was
never at the forefront of their
minds: “I’m well aware that
the topic can quickly send
people to sleep and/or lose
focus, but it’s vitally important
to get to grips with as
there can be consequences for
non-compliance.”
Looking at the myths in
reverse order, Nigel believes
that cost-effective web site
development and hosting can
definitely help those starting
their business. Opting for free
software packages including
the very popular WordPress
content management system
(CMS) can assist even more.
However, having been a developer
in his previous career, he
knows that WordPress, like so
many ‘out-of-the-box’ CMSs,
is not necessarily compliant
with the legislation and needs
additional security measures
and must be maintained and
updated regularly.
Guide to privacy and
WordPress
Nigel has written an e-book
guide ‘WordPress and the
Data Protection & Privacy
Legislation (Including Direct
Marketing)’ to help with compliance
for those considering
using WordPress or already
using it. It introduces the legislation
to readers, then looks
at applying it to WordPress.
Online training
Similarly, being a sole trader
himself, Nigel knows that
there’s never enough time to
attend seminars, seek advice
or find specific training on
data protection and privacy
when starting or running a
business. This is especially
common now that the ‘hype’
surrounding GDPR is dying
down and many of the online
options concentrated on
GDPR and ignored the Data
Protection Act 2018 and other
legislation.
For sole traders and smaller
SMEs, Nigel has developed
an online learning web site.
There’s no need to complete
courses in one go and learners
can stop and start whenever
they need so they can progress
at a pace that suits them.
Training for employees
The courses are also available
to larger organisations for new
starters (who need training
within one month of starting,
according to the ICO’s guidelines)
and for refresher training
(which should be undertaken
every two years or less, depending
on the individual’s role).
Results can be reported and
kept with training records as
part of the GDPR’s ‘accountability’
principle.
Privacy in the future
Returning to the first myth,
Nigel simply states that GDPR
is simply about “Getting Data
Protection Right!”.
With Britain having left the
European Union, Nigel will
be keeping abreast of privacy
developments, ensuring that
he will be a knowledgeable
source for North Devon businesses
needing practical advice
on remaining compliant with
privacy legislation.
■■Nigel’s e-Book is available at
wpdataprotection.com
■■e-Learning courses available
at enaychlearning.co.uk
Cranford Business
Services Limited
WE OFFER ASSISTANCE WITH:
Valuations
Cost Management
Bills of Quantities Tendering
Procurement
Invoice Reconciliation
CALL TODAY for an informal chat:
01271 603053
futuredimensions.uk
info@futuredimensions.uk
www.accountsindevon.co.uk
Old Stone, Cranford, Bideford, Devon, EX39 5QW
07896 204 857
Does your accountant...
Listen to you and act on your needs?
Explain your accounts in terms you understand?
Arrange meeting at your convenience?
Leaving you free to concentrate on what you do best!
6
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
FORECASTING
Promote your business all year round with our
Business Action Plans
All plans include
➤➤6 adverts (if selected)
➤➤6 magazine listings
➤➤online listing
➤➤6 mailed magazines
➤➤plus more
Select plan
£50 Business Action Plan – 6 magazine listings
£150 Business Action Plan – 6 business card adverts
£275 Business Action Plan – 6 banner adverts
£400 Business Action Plan – 6 quarter page adverts
£750 Business Action Plan – 6 half page adverts
£1,375 Business Action Plan – 6 full page adverts
Payment options
Pay in full or by
12 monthly instalments –
with no extra charges.
Put yourself in front of
North Devon businesses.
Book online at business-action.co.uk/plans or call Alan on 07970 671192
Making accurate sales predictions
The seasonal nature of many
Devon businesses, especially
those in the food and drink
sector, can introduce considerable
uncertainty. How can
you accurately predict sales
demand, understand consumer
trends and manage supply,
distribution and service
expectations? Foresite SPA,
a cloud-based software tool
developed in Devon, aims to
provide the answer.
With its headquarters
in London and its development
base in Devon, Foresite
SPA was established by chief
executive Brian Hawkes, who
has a successful track record
of designing and prototyping
business development software
with international blue-chip
clients in the USA and Scandinavia.
With these clients
outperforming competitors and
markets in sales growth, Brian
joined forces with Chris Mellor
in 2004 to bring these tools to
small and medium-sized businesses
in the form of Foresite.
“It was Brian’s brainchild
Foresite SPA sponsored the Taste of the West ‘Ready Meals’ Award 2019:
Foresite’s Colin Slade (left) and Chris Mellor (right)
with winners Natural Branscombe
and he came up with the
concept, having done this for
multinationals,” says Chris. “I
was the project manager for
turning the concept into a sellable
product.
“Foresite provides visibility
into the sales pipeline, helping
the people driving and
growing businesses to achieve
their goals.”
Foresite was always going
to be web-based and Chris’
move to near Crediton 13 years
ago presented the challenge of
operating over a broadband
connection with speeds of
under 0.5Mbps. This turned
out to be a great benefit as
Foresite has been optimised
to maintain high performance
where connectivity is poor,
meaning that it is ideal for
rural businesses based in
remote locations.
As chief technical officer,
Chris completed the mathematics
calculations for Foresite
from scratch and, now enjoying
a much a faster broadband
connection of 300Mbps, he is
focusing on increasing product
take-up. Foresite already has
customers in Germany, Italy
and Scandinavia in a number
of sectors and, with his base in
Devon, Chris is keen to help
local businesses with their
demand planning, especially
the food and drink sector.
A meeting with Colin Slade,
who retired after a long career,
including roles with South
West Business Expo and the
Best of Exeter, brought him
back as the face of Foresite to
build contacts, network and
explain the benefits of the
software to local businesses.
This has included exhibiting
at events and sponsoring the
Taste of the West Awards
‘Ready Meals’ category in 2019.
Keen to support businesses
in Devon, Chris and Colin are
always enthusiastic to discuss
the challenges businesses
face here and to explore how
Foresite can help with these.
■■Details 020 3858 9650 or
foresitespa.com
Looking for independent financial advice?
Call us on 01237 426450
for a free initial consultation
contact@dscottfinancial.co.uk
https://dscottfinancial.co.uk
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 7
FITNESS
Healthy life, healthy business
Just the mention of the word
‘gym’ can strike terror into
anyone who has had a bad
experience, perhaps long ago
when they were in school.
Kula Fitness in Ilfracombe is
on a mission to resolve this
by breaking down barriers to
exercise and enabling anyone
to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Founder Russell Port has
22 years’ experience of the
fitness industry, but his love
of sport began as a child when
his mum was a PE teacher and
his dad was a footballer. In
1993, he played for the England
Rugby Development squad and
joined Cardiff Blues as a young
aspirational player, and studied
sports science at Cardiff
University. However, Russell’s
promising rugby career stalled
when injury hit him. Thinking
that joining a health club would
help him regain the level of
fitness needed to play rugby at
the highest level, it redirected
him on to an entirely new
career path.
Over 20 years, Russell
worked across the UK for one
of the world’s biggest chains of
health clubs. He oversaw the
management of 96 clubs and in
2002 won the ‘Health Club of
the Year’ award at the Fitness
Industry National Awards. He
has managed clubs in Ireland
and Malaysia and reached a
point where he was driving
50,000 miles a year for business.
This led Russell to realise
it was time to achieve two
long-held ambitions of running
his own business and living
in North Devon where he
had holidayed as a child. First
coming down to rent accom-
modation as a trial and then
leaving his employer, Russell
decided to go back to his roots
as a personal trainer, working
direct with clients. He started
Kula Fitness in September 2017.
“It has probably been more
stressful managing this than
big health clubs,” says Russell.
“After having 400 personal
trainers in a team, I started all
alone, trying to learn about
being off the beaten track.”
No nonsense approach to health and safety
H&S
JI Health & Safety Consultancy
H&S Audit
H&S Training
Tailored H&S Management Systems
Assistance with SSIPs Accreditations
Risk Assessment / Risk Management
Jane Bass 07732 328222
DipNEBOSH jinnes2@sky.com
Kula Fitness, Ilfracombe: (from left) Emily Shreeves and founder Russell Port
Russell was soon joined
by partner Emily. Russell’s
qualification include Personal
Fitness Trainer and Certificate
in Understanding Autism and
he is also a qualified children’s
fitness instructor, England
Boxing coach, Rugby Ready
coach, Boxercise Ltd instructor
and suspension training
instructor. Emily is a certified
Level 3 personal trainer and
nutrition advisor.
Together they provide oneto-one
training (or two-to-one
maximum) in the privacy of
their fully-equipped studio in
Ilfracombe High Street.
“We set the studio up to be
private and non-intimidating,”
says Russell, understanding
that clients need to feel
comfortable when coming in
to train.
As well as removing
barriers to fitness, such as
poor childhood experiences,
Russell realises that time is also
an issue for busy people. To
address this Kula Fitness offers
flexible appointments, even
starting at 6am.
The aim of making fitness
available to everyone is demonstrated
by the age range of
clients, starting at five years old
and rising to 72 years. Russell’s
qualifications enable him to
provide appropriate training
for different age groups, which
differ considerably.
Russell also works with
individuals with disabilities
and long-term health conditions,
and is especially keen to
work with those with special
needs such as autism. This has
led to working with an Exmoor
school involving children with
special needs.
Emily has an interest in
working with women, especially
mothers who want to
regain their fitness.
When starting the business,
Russell selected the Sanskrit
word ‘kula’ as its name, because
of its meaning: community.
This reflects the aim to
encourage everyone to achieve
and maintain fitness, whatever
their present condition or
circumstances.
The first step for a new client
is a free consultation at which
they can satisfy themselves
that they feel comfortable
for Russell and Emily to map
out their path to a happier
and healthier lifestyle. Next a
personal programme is tailored
to meet their individual needs
and aspirations. This is also
designed to educate the client
about the right exercise and
lifestyle changes that will help
them achieve their fitness goals.
While Kula Fitness focuses on
one-to-one training, it has links
with other professionals and can
organise group classes, family
classes and distance support if
that’s what a client wants.
This approach continues to
attract new clients who achieve
their personal fitness goals with
Kula Fitness. It is a big change
to managing multiple health
clubs across different countries,
but Russell believes Kula
Fitness is making a difference
to the health of the community.
■■Details 07923 142 457 or
kulafitness.co.uk
8
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
DIRECTORY
ACCOUNTANTS
Glover Stanbury
Barnstaple & Bideford
t: 01271 375271 / 01237 471881
w: gloverstanbury.co.uk
ADMINISTRATIVe SERVICES
Exmoorfern
South Molton
t: 01598 740210
w: exmoorfern.co.uk
ARCHITECTS
Sam Nolan RIBA Architect
North Devon & UK
t: 01271 325 236
w: northdevonarchitects.com
Brewery
GT Ales
Chivenor
t: 01271 267420
w: gtales.co.uk
Business Advisor
Susie Kevern
North Devon
t: 07801 199671
w: poundlane.co.uk
Commercial Property
James Doble Commercial
North Devon
t: 01237 424053
w: jd-commercial.co.uk
Copiers & Printers
Clarity Copiers North Devon
Barnstaple & North Devon
t: 01237 374061
w: claritynorthdevon.co.uk
Copywriting & communications
Zarywacz
North Devon & UK
t: 01271 879100
w: z2z.com
Counselling & Psychotherapy
North Devon Counselling
Barnstaple
t: 07872 501606
w: northdevoncounselling.co.uk
HealTh & SAFETY
JI Health & Safety Consultancy
Combe Martin
t: 07732 328222
Hotels
The Carlton
Ilfracombe
t: 01271 862446
w: ilfracombecarlton.co.uk
Human Resources
Fitzgerald HR
Barnstaple, Exeter, London &
Wellington
t: 01271 859267
w: fitzgeraldhr.co.uk
Right Way HR Services
Highampton
t: 07825 090782
Hypnotherapy
New Life Hypnotherapy
South Molton
t: 01769 57471
w: newlifehypnotherapy.org
Insurance
Towergate
Bideford
t: 01237 429978
w: towergate.com/locations/bideford
Together Insurance Solutions
Barnstaple
t: 01271 347147
w: togetherinsurancesolutions.co.uk
Locksmiths
MJS Locksmith
Bideford
t: 07532 139388
w: northdevonlocksmith.co.uk
SW Locksmiths
Holsworthy / Bude
t: 01409 255533
w: swlocksmiths.com
Networking groups
Business Networking in Barnstaple
Barnstaple
t: 0843 289 1339
w: bnibarnstaple.co.uk
Devon Partnerships
Devon
t: 07393 149855
w: devonpartnerships.co.uk
North Devon Networking Group
Barnstaple
w: northdevonnetworking.co.uk
Rise
Barnstaple
e: martin@duchyifa.co.uk
Torridge Business Network
Westward Ho!
w: torridgebusinessnetwork.co.uk
Office Supplies
South West Office Supplies
North Devon
t: 01271 889337
w: swofficesupplies.co.uk
BUSINESS LISTINGS
Photography
Tarkatography
Westward Ho!
t: 07977 414798
w: tarkatography.co.uk
Printing
Jamaica Press
Buckland Brewer
t: 01237 452333
w: jamaicapress.co.uk
Recruitment
Cooper Golding
Barnstaple
t: 01271 349745
w: coopergolding.co.uk
Simple Recruitment
Bideford
t: 01237 439500
w: simplerecruitmentltd.co.uk
TRAVEL AGENT
Clare Flint – Travel Counsellors
North Devon & UK
t: 01271 828990
w: travelcounsellors.co.uk/clare.flint
Web SITES & DIGITAL
Itseeze North Devon
North Devon
Tel: 07890 633458
Web: itseeze-northdevon.co.uk
Peak Online
Bideford
t: 01237 721256
w: northdevon.peak-online.uk.com
Welding & Sandblasting
Nott’s Welding
Ilfracombe & North Devon
t: 07706 595955
Wills
Wills at Home
West Yelland
t: 01271 860105
w: wills-athome.co.uk
List your business all year!
£50 Business Action Plan
The £50 annual Business
Action Plan promotes your
business throughout the year
in this magazine – see listings
above – and online in our
needitfindit.uk directory.
➤➤Magazine listing, including
name, business type, phone
number, web site and
address, printed in 6 issues.
➤➤Online listing including
name, business type, phone
number, web site and
address, description and
logo for one year.
➤➤6 issues of magazine mailed
direct to your UK address.
BOOK YOUR LISTING NOW AT
business-action.co.uk/plans
Call 01271 326694.
info@boomboomedia.co.uk
visit www.boomboommedia.co.uk
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 9
AWARDS
business
ACTION AWARDS
2020
North Devon’s independent business awards
Celebrating North Devon enterprise
The inaugural Business
Action Awards, celebrating the
outstanding achievements of
businesses based or operating
in North Devon, are now open
for entries.
Independent & transparent
The awards are fully independent
and transparent to attract
entries from as many businesses
as possible of all sizes,
from all sectors, from all areas
of North Devon.
Sponsors and judges are
separate and neither will enter
the awards. This guarantees
complete impartiality and
establish essential credibility.
Why enter?
The awards are free to enter
and offer promotional opportunities
and prizes, including
advertising, to businesses
selected as finalists or winners.
The winners will be announced
at a major awards event
combining food and drink,
theatre and networking.
In addition, every business
entering the awards will have
the chance to win an advertising
package worth £150.
Awards categories
Businesses based and operating
in North Devon can enter as
many categories as they like –
deadline for entries is 23:59 on
Monday 9 March 2020.
The winner of each category
will go forward for the judging
of the overall North Devon
Business of the Year Award.
Judging and finalists
The finalists for each category
will be announced in April on
➤➤Best Employer
➤➤Best Retailer
➤➤Business-to-Business Excellence
➤➤Consumer Service Excellence
➤➤Digital and Online Achievement
➤➤Excellence in Construction
➤➤Excellence in Hospitality & Tourism
➤➤Highest Achieving Learner
➤➤Made in North Devon
➤➤Outstanding New Business
➤➤Young Entrepreneur
➤➤The winner of each category above will go forward to the
judging of the North Devon Business of the Year 2020
ENTRY DEADLINE: 23:59 MONDAY 9 MARCH
FINALISTS ANNOUNCED: APRIL ISSUE
WINNERS EVENT: THURSDAY 4 JUNE
business-action.co.uk/awards
our web site and in the April
issue of Business Action.
Winners
The winners will be announced
on Thursday 4 June 2020 at
AWARDS CATEGORIES
the Business Action Awards
event at the Landmark Theatre,
Ilfracombe, which will include
networking, buffet and an
exciting presentation in the
theatre auditorium.
ENTER NOW
➤➤Free to enter
➤➤Finalists will be featured in
the April issue of Business
Action and in the awards
event souvenir programme
+ online publicity
➤➤Award winners will enjoy
being in the spotlight at
the awards event + extensive
coverage in the June
issue of Business Action
and online publicity +
advertising prize + awards
certificate, online and print
winner’s logo and promotional
material + more
prizes
➤➤Every entrant will be
entered in a prize draw for
a £150 Business Action
advertising package
■■business-action.co.uk/awards
Sponsors
We are grateful to the generosity
of each of our sponsors,
without whom these awards
would not be possible.
There are still sponsorship
opportunities available, which
include advertising, editorial
and online promotion. Contact
us if you want to snap up one
of the last remaining slots.
Celebrating enterprise
The aim of celebrating enterprise
means that we invite
entries from all businesses in
the area, from sole traders to
large companies, from start-ups
to established firms, and from
every sector. We look forward
to receiving your entries.
■■business-action.co.uk/awards
10
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
Philip J Milton & Company Plc
We are delighted and proud
to offer a fully independent
financial and investment
planning service and we advise
upon all aspects of clients’
financial affairs.
The company continues to
expand its operations and also
offers an Accountancy and
Taxation service along with a
Will Writing, Trusts, Estates
and Probate Department.
The company is authorised
and regulated by the Financial
Conduct Authority (FCA)
and is one of the largest and
longest established Independent
Financial Advisers in
North Devon.
We are regulated at one of
the highest available categories,
being one of a very few
authorised to undertake
discretionary investment
management and to hold client
money. Consequently, we are
required to maintain sizeable
and very strict financial
resources at all times.
The company’s accounts are
subject to thorough independent
audit and full accounts
are published and submitted
AWARDS
NORTH DEVON BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2020
The winners of each of the 11
award categories will progress
to judging for the overall winner
of winners title where one
will be named North Devon
Business of the Year 2020.
This headline award is
being sponsored by Philip J
Milton & Company Plc.
Philip Milton says: “As the
managing director of Philip J
Milton & Company Plc, independent
wealth managers and
financial advisers, I am very
to the FCA regularly. Also,
the Financial Ombudsman
Service and Financial Services’
sponsored by
pleased to sponsor this year’s
Business Action Awards and
to celebrate the showcasing
of the marvellous variety of
successful businesses here in
North Devon.
“I look forward to congratulating
each of the category
winners and nominees on
their excellence and for
providing our young people
with aspirations of a bright
and lucrative future right here
on their doorstep.”
Compensation Scheme apply
to enhance investor protection
against financial loss.
With well over three decades
of experience, we also boast
some of the highest financial
services’ qualifications in the
country. Staff are encouraged
and sponsored to achieve qualifications
beyond the industry
standard to ensure that we
continue to deliver an excellent
service to clients.
Success can be attributed
largely to the company’s
uncompromising commitment
to clients, including ongoing
assessment and management
of investments, a thorough
understanding of financial
markets, prudent management
and long-term financial
stability.
We do not simply ‘sell
products’ – we provide a
comprehensive and longlasting
service to individuals
and their families. This is an
important distinction and an
approach that is rare in today’s
fast-moving landscape.
This has led to many clients
recommending family and
friends to seek our advice – the
ultimate endorsement of the
quality of our services.
■■Visit miltonpj.net
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 11
AWARDS
EASY TO ENTER ONLINE OR BY EMAIL
Businesses based or operating in North Devon can enter as
many of the 11 categories over the following pages as they like.
Enter using the online form for each specific category or
download, complete and email the Word entry form for that
category. Please write your entries in a word-processing app in
advance and copy into the online form to avoid losing text. See
more awards tips on page 17.
■■Visit business-action.co.uk/awards
Cooper Golding is a local,
independent provider of highquality
recruitment services.
With three offices based in
North Devon and Somerset,
our aim is to help candidates
find rewarding work opportunities
locally and further
afield. We strive to support
our clients in finding talented
individuals to drive their business
success. We work with
many leading companies both
locally, regionally and nationally,
across our core sectors
– manufacturing, engineering,
industrial, sales and marketing
and business support.
We are a group of experienced
business and recruitment
specialists here at Cooper
Golding. Professional and
passionate about helping our
candidates and clients on their
recruitment journey. Honesty
and integrity and people first
are part of our core values,
offering an approach which
is transparent and respectful,
knowledgeable and innovative.
Having been part of the
local community for the past
eight years, we understand
the struggles that clients face
while trying to find the perfect
candidate. We offer a range of
tailored recruitment services
to help our clients find the best
available talent. From permanent
to temporary staffing
solutions, we collaborate with
companies to understand their
culture, vision and goals as
well as with our candidates
to ensure we make the best
suited match. We use the latest
The ‘Best
Employer
Award’ seeks
to recognise
employers based
or operating in
North Devon
who are committed to providing
a fulfilling environment in
which their employees thrive.
Many of us spend a large
proportion of our time at
work and working in an environment
which is safe, healthy
and where we feel happy is
technology and data, coupled
with the personal touch
which makes our service fast,
efficient and bespoke to each
individual client’s and candidate’s
needs.
Cooper Golding is
committed to helping candidates
find their ideal job
by providing honest career
advice, conducting CV health
checks and offering interview
tips to ensure candidates are
promoting themselves in the
best light.
We are sponsoring ‘The
BEST EMPLOYER
sponsored by
very important.
The Best
Employer Award
seeks to recognise
employers
in North Devon
who realise this
and who achieve exceptional
standards of care for their
employees.
The Best Employer Award is
open to any business in North
Devon which employs people,
from one member of staff to
hundreds or thousands.
Best Employer Award’ this year
as we believe it is important
to highlight the qualities that
make a good employer. As a
local recruitment agency, we
see a range of skill shortages
within different markets every
day and believe it is increasingly
important that candidates
have a choice in who they work
for. Employers should work
towards creating a great and
positive work ethic and environment
to attract and retain
the best talent.
■■Visit coopergolding.co.uk
The Independent Corrugated
Cardboard Packaging Specialists
Passionate about our Community and supporting
our Charity of the Year 2020.
Roundswell Business Park,
Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 3TT.
+44(0)1271
344 055
sales@atlaspackaging.co.uk
www.atlaspackaging.co.uk
12
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
AWARDS
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS SERVICE EXCELLENCE
sponsored by
The ‘Businessto-Business
Excellence
Award’ recognises
North
Devon businesses
who
provide important B2B
services to other businesses.
Every business needs essential
business services to operate
successfully. While it can be
easy to consider accountancy,
legal or other B2B services
solely as costs, effective
accountants and lawyers add
value to improve the productivity,
sales and
profitability of
their clients.
The Businessto-Business
Excellence
Award is open
to any business in North
Devon providing B2B services
to other businesses, such as
accountancy, administrative,
advertising, finance, healthcare,
health and safety, insurance,
law, marketing, sales,
training, as well as advice on
everything from employment
to outsourcing.
CONSUMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE
The ‘Consumer Service Excellence
Award’ recognises North
Devon businesses who provide
services direct to residents and
the public.
Each of us relies on a
number of consumer businesses
in our life, from
hairdressers and barbers to
cleaners, gardeners, fitness
instructors, health practitioners
and dentists, and more.
The Consumer Service
Excellence Award is open
to any business in North
Devon providing services to
consumers.
From entertainment to
sport, leisure, healthcare and
beauty, the Consumer Service
Excellence Award highlights
businesses in North Devon
whose services support
consumers and the community.
Zero7
Zero7 provides expert business
telecoms and technical support.
We know that every business
is different and so are their
needs, which is why we provide
bespoke managed services to
suit every requirement.
Whether you are a single
line and broadband user with
one mobile or have multiple
users and large-scale telephone
systems, we can tailor and build
a solution for your business.
We work with the biggest
network providers in the
The ‘Best Retailer Award’ recognises
North Devon retailers
who provide the best shopping
experience and service.
Shops are the lifeblood of
our towns and villages, yet
our retailers face huge challenges
with little support from
government and councils.
Those stores who address the
needs of their customers, especially
independent shops, are
driving a resurgence in high
street retailing based on the
growing appreciation of their
BEST RETAILER
industry including Openreach,
EE and O2 so we can assist with
infrastructure and installations,
from a single line and broadband
to large-scale projects
such as commercial builds and
Gigabit Internet connections.
We believe in a customer
service-focused approach,
offering competitive pricing
and technical expertise. Our
in-house billing and customer
support teams are on hand
to help your business get
connected.
■■Visit zr7.co
personal service, willingness
to offer what customers want
and the value they give to the
community.
The Best Retailer Award is
open to any retailer in North
Devon. From village stores on
which residents depend for
essentials to specialist retailers
offering eclectic ranges of
high-quality goods, the Best
Retailer Award highlights
retailers who make the shopping
experience in North
Devon the best in the country.
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 13
AWARDS
EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION
sponsored by
The ‘Excellence
in Construction
Award’ aims to
recognise excellence
throughout
the North Devon
building and
construction sector. It highlights
exceptional standards
of built environments, which
provide high quality of life for
work, home, and play.
The Excellence in
Construction
award is open to
all businesses in
the sector based
or working in
North Devon.
From sole
traders and SMEs to large
companies, this includes
trades such as building, decorating,
carpentry, electricity,
plumbing, heating, and
landscaping.
DIGITAL AND ONLINE ACHIEVEMENT
The ‘Digital and Online
Achievement Award’ recognises
North Devon businesses
who are developing the full
potential of online and digital
technologies and the internet.
Technology is transforming
business. When used effectively,
it can create opportunities
for innovation, increased
productivity, greater profitability
and better working
conditions. Technology also
offers businesses in North
Devon tools that can compensate
for the area’s remoteness,
which can create barriers to
reaching new markets.
The Digital and Online
Achievement Award is open to
any business in North Devon
working with digital and
internet technology, either as
a creator or user. This includes
building web sites, creating
content and using social
media for marketing and
selling, as well as integrating
cloud technology or other
online systems into business
processes to improve efficiency
and customer experience.
RGB Building Supplies
We are one of the leading independent
builders merchants in
the South West, operating out
of 20 locations across Devon,
Cornwall and Somerset. At
our branches you’ll find a wide
array of high-quality products
in stock, including landscaping,
plumbing and heating, heavyside
and lightside, decorating,
and general building materials,
as well as dedicated kitchen,
bathroom and bedroom showrooms
in many locations.
Our branch teams are highly
knowledgeable and are on hand
to offer necessary technical
assistance, recommend products
from our extensive stock,
and assist with any projects
you’re undertaking. Whether
it’s our knowledgeable staff,
great range of products, or
authenticity and reliability, we
aim to go that extra mile.
We have been independent
since 1850, and feel that our
family roots and community
focus are at the heart of
what we do. We understand
that customers’ needs are
constantly changing, so we
work hard to evolve with the
times, and make sure dealing
with us is as easy as possible.
Our stock profile includes
a wide variety of products,
enabling us to fulfil your
requirements whether you’re
building, maintaining, renovating
or repairing.
Our local branches deliver
to our local communities,
providing quality products
from our trusted suppliers,
while overcoming any logistical
challenges that sites may
face. For these reasons, our
customers always trust us to
deliver, when and how we say
we will.
We are open to all,
welcoming both the trade and
public, no matter how big or
small the project. We’re proud
to have been building our local
communities for the past 170
years, and look forward to
serving you in one of our 20
branches throughout Devon,
Cornwall and Somerset soon.
We’re delighted to be
involved in recognising a
local hero in the construction
industry, a sector very relevant
to our business.
■■Visit rgbltd.co.uk
Visit ideaengine.co.uk to see all the
brands that we have brought to life
online, in print, outdoors and in a
whole host of other ways.
ideaengine.co.uk
01271 324594 or 07974306711
Web, Brand, Advertising, Design, Literature
14
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
AWARDS
EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM
sponsored by
The ‘Excellence
in Hospitality
and Tourism
Award’ recognises
businesses
who attract
visitors to North
Devon, offer the warmest welcome
and provide experiences
to last a lifetime.
The North Devon landscape
is so beautiful and offers so
many activities and experiences
to visitors that it is a
natural holiday destination.
The experiences visitors have
here determine what they
tell their family and friends
and whether
they will return
again. That
is why businesses
in our
hospitality and
tourism sector
are of vital importance to
North Devon’s reputation as a
visitor destination.
The Excellence in Hospitality
and Tourism Award is
open to any business operating
in North Devon that works to
attract visitors and provide
hospitality services, from
accommodation to dining,
leisure activities and travel.
HIGHEST ACHIEVING LEARNER
sponsored by
The ‘Highest
Achieving
Learner Award’
recognises the
achievements
of individuals
working in businesses
in North Devon who
are currently or have recently
completed training or skills
development.
Learning and skills are
essential both to developing
the full potential of individuals
so they enjoy satisfying
careers and also to creating
a skilled and productive
workforce for North Devon’s
businesses.
The Highest
Achieving
Learner Award
is open to
nominations
of individuals
of any age or background
working in North Devon who
are currently taking or have
recently completed workrelated
training. This ranges
from courses to improve
numeracy and literacy to
traineeships, apprenticeships,
graduate courses, vocational
courses and specialist professional
qualifications.
Marsdens Devon Cottages
Marsdens Devon Cottages
is an independent family
business, started in 1973.
We’ve grown a lot since the
early days of letting our first
self-catering holiday cottages,
but our promise to provide the
very best service – as well as a
fantastic range of great places
to stay – hasn’t changed one
bit. As every year goes by, our
experience continues to grow.
With over 400 holiday cottages
across North Devon and
Exmoor, Marsdens Devon
Cottages understands how to
get the most from letting your
holiday property.
Our local team offers a
professional, personal and
friendly service, plus all our
properties are graded by our
own Quality Assessment Team
to give guests confidence.
■■Visit marsdens.co.uk
Atlas Packaging
Atlas Packaging is the UK’s
leading independent cardboard
box company.
Our main aim is to provide
our customers with the best
bespoke corrugated packaging
and to do this we have our own
design and production service.
This means that at every step
of the process it’s conducted
accurately whilst keeping our
prices highly competitive.
We understand that long
waiting times, costs and poor
quality can harm the impression
of your businesses. At Atlas
Packaging we have the advantage
of housing both design and
manufacturing facilities on site
which allows us to fast-track
the process of making your
corrugated packaging. We keep
our prices fair and competitive
to ensure that the highest
quality standards are maintained
throughout the process.
And with constant reinvestment
and consultation we are able to
offer state-of-the-art printing
and manufacturing services to
maintain quality is at its very
best every step of the way.
■■Visit atlaspackaging.co.uk
01271 370707 www.zr7.co hello@zr7.co
LINES AND CALLS
BUSINESS BROADBAND
VOIP TELEPHONE SYSTEMS
BUSINESS MOBILES
4G CONNECTIVITY
WI-FI NETWORKS
ISDN AND PBX
CABLING AND INSTALLATIONS
LEASED LINES AND GIGABIT
IN-HOUSE BILLING AND INVOICING
LOCAL TECHNICAL SUPPORT
The Fox at Fremington
Bar, café, pub
Sunday Carvery £10.95
(£14.95 including desert)
Booking advisable
01271 344161
Church Hill, Fremington, Barnstaple, EX31 2NT
facebook.com/thefoxfremington
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 15
AWARDS
The ‘Made in
North Devon
Award’ recognises
North
Devon manufacturers
and
producers whose products are
enjoyed locally and exported
across the UK and internationally.
North Devon has a long
history of manufacturing and
production. Its manufacturing
ranges from traditional goods
and products to hi-tech
The Sign Maker
The Sign Maker manufactures
high-quality signs and
memorials to suit all budgets,
offering a huge choice in
materials, fonts and images. It
also provides a massive range
of standard safety signs, posters
and equipment.
We make so many different
signs just the way you want
them – house signs, home
signs and name plates, door
numbers, memorial plaques,
business signs and wheel
covers.
MADE IN NORTH DEVON
sponsored by
equipment and
materials used
in aviation,
medicine and
other sectors. Its
food and drink
products range from meat and
fish to speciality ciders, wines,
beers and marmalades.
The Made in North Devon
Award is open to manufacturers
or producers of physical
products, including materials,
equipment, food and drink.
Our main workshops are in
North Devon, but we send our
signs all over the world. We
know we are lucky to be situated
in the country – and on
our web site you can learn how
we Care for our Countryside.
If you need advice with any
of the signs, plaques, business
signage, memorials or gifts, do
call us on 01769 561355. And
visit our web site to see the
huge variety of signage we offer.
You can place orders by phone,
email or via our online shop.
■■Visit sign-maker.net
OUTSTANDING NEW BUSINESS
The ‘Outstanding New Business
Award’ recognises the
success of new North Devon
businesses as they establish
themselves.
New businesses are
essential to the success of the
North Devon economy as
new technology causes some
older industries to disappear
and the natural cycle leads to
experienced business people
retiring. New businesses are
always needed to replace
The ‘Young Entrepreneur
Award’ recognises successful
North Devon business owners
and directors aged 30 or
under.
The business world is
changing faster than ever
before which makes it more
difficult for young people to
predict how their careers can
develop. The small population
in a large geographical
area also limits the number
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR
old ones and to develop the
economy for the future. Due
to its remoteness, running a
business in North Devon is a
big challenge and maintaining
a business here is a major
achievement.
The Outstanding New
Business Award is open to
any business in North Devon
started on or after 1 January
2018. This includes businesses
acquired by and transformed
by new owners.
of opportunities available
to young people. The Young
Entrepreneur Award recognises
the achievements of
young people who start their
own business or who progress
through existing job roles to
own or lead a business.
The Young Enterprise
Award is open to any North
Devon business owner or
director aged 30 years or
under on 31 March 2020.
business-action.co.uk/awards
You are invited to the official launch of our new Centre of Technology & Innovation
Excellence (Cotie) on Friday 7 February 2020. Cotie is here to provide North Devon
businesses with the tools to create their own future.
Our innovation centre is built to inspire collaboration and creativity, and contains
everything from:
• an expertly-equipped development zone with 3D manufacturing technology
• a relaxed yet professional conferencing area
• open-plan hot desks area complete with high spec and fully loaded PCs and Macs
• a state-of-the-art cleanroom
• two crisply modern design pods
OFFICIAL
LAUNCH
7 FEBRUARY 2020
8-10am
The event will run from 8-10am with a welcome address from Sean Mackney, Petroc
Principal & CEO at 8.30am. Refreshments will be available.
We look forward to welcoming you on the day.
PLEASE REGISTER YOUR ATTENDANCE:
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cotie-official-launchtickets-90301396909
Petroc
Old Sticklepath Hill
Barnstaple
Devon
EX31 2BQ
INNOVATION LAUNCHPAD
AWARDS
Top tips on winning business awards
Always wanted to win a
business award? Don’t know
where to start or what you
should include in your entry?
Winning an award can also
boost team morale, drive
competitive advantage and
secure trust in your business.
Multi-award winner Denise
O’Leary of Purpol Marketing
explains how to consistently
win business awards for your
business and leverage the great
PR opportunities they present.
What do you want to be
known for?
When trying to decide which
award or category of an award
to enter, you need to consider
the relevance that the award
can have to your business. If
you have limited resources,
then target the one you really
want, find out the structure and
then the entry can be tweaked
for any additional submissions.
Promote your USP:
Unique Selling Point
Every company will be different
– you have got to determine
what your company USP is –
this is the Unique Selling Point
that makes you stand out and
makes your business memorable.
This is the content you
need to focus on to make your
entry impactful.
Evidence is essential
– get client testimonials
Award entries give you the
opportunity to document
your achievements, but if you
haven’t done yourself justice
on that entry form, they can’t
give you the credit. If someone
outside the business has been
prepared to say how great you
are, it is far more powerful.
Tailor your entries for
ultimate success
Each award is likely to be
judged individually, so we
would always recommend that
you tackle each award independently.
The entry criteria need
to be evaluated and matched
against your individual and
company attributes and then
displayed on the entry form.
Visualise that win
Understand why you want to
win. When you know this, you
can target the awards to enter.
Build an Award Calendar –
this will make it easier for time
planning.
Be honest
Always be honest with your
entry. Don’t lie, make up
figures or avoid mentioning
something that the general
business community will know
about you. The judges are
usually experienced business
owners, investors and experts
in their fields. Being sincere
and explaining your challenges
is very powerful as it shows you
are constantly learning.
You can find more awards
tips in Denise’s new book
‘WINNER – How to Win
Business Awards’ available at
winnerhowtowin.com
■■Details 01249 481411 or
purpolmarketing.co.uk
What value is there in entering and winning
awards? asks Business Action editor
Robert Zarywacz.
Well, in 2019 we entered Business
Action in the Small Business
Saturday competition to be one of its
#SmallBiz100 – 100 businesses from
across the country selected to represent
the campaign. Not only were we chosen
as the only business in Devon, but we
joined the Small Business Saturday
alumni, a group of all the #SmallBiz100
winners since the campaign began. It
was through this that I connected with
Denise O’Leary – whose business had
been selected in 2017 – on LinkedIn.
Denise told me that the book she had
written on entering awards would be
published in early 2020, coinciding with
our own awards. We kept in touch and
Denise sent me a copy to review here.
We had already realised we wanted
to publish some tips for our awards and
Denise’s book covers every topic we
identified, from recognising that your
business very likely has the ability to win
awards to selecting the most suitable
awards for your business to enter. As
an experienced organiser and judge of
awards myself, I agree with Denise’s practical
suggestions, including composing
your award entries offline (so you don’t
lose hours of work when an online entry
form crashes) to understanding what
judges are looking for in your entry and
how to satisfy that.
Our aim in organising the Business
Action Awards is not only to recognise
the achievements of North Devon businesses,
but also to encourage more to
enter and win other industry, regional
or national awards. If you want your
business to be an award winner, I recommend
you read WINNER – How to Win
Business Awards.
If we hadn’t entered the #SmallBiz100,
we wouldn’t have benefited by connecting
with winners including Denise.
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 17
IN THE HOT SEAT
Jason Sharman of Atlas Packaging
1. What was your first job?
My first job was working
in an insurance office as an
administrator for the claims
department. It was where I first
discovered how creative people
can be with the truth!
2. What is the best
business advice you’ve
ever received?
The best advice I have received
in business is ‘Do the right
thing’.
3. What do you enjoy most
about business?
What I love about business is
meeting a myriad of personalities
and getting an insight into
various industries and how
they operate.
4. What essential
technology could your
business never be without?
There is no way we could
operate without computers,
the thought of that gives me
the shivers!
5. Describe your business
management / style
My management / business
style is one based around
teamwork and collaboration:
you can achieve so much more
as a group.
6. How do you go about
personal development?
I gain personal development
by reading, staying abreast
of current affairs and sharing
experiences with friends
throughout the industry.
7. Is there anything about
yourself that you would like
to change?
If there was one thing I wish I
Each issue we put a North Devon business personality in the hot seat
and ask them 10 questions. This issue we asked Jason Sharman,
managing director of Atlas Packaging in Barnstaple
could change it would be to be
more considered. I tend to go
from heart rather than head a
little too much.
8. Social media: yes or no?
Preferred network?
Social media for the business,
but not for me personally. My
data is my data, although I do
have a LinkedIn profile.
9. How do you wind down
when not working?
I like to run whilst listening to
music as a way to wind down,
currently listening to ‘Bicep’
and ‘Hot Since 82’ for some
great up-tempo tunes. I also
try to read but often failing as I
tend to fall asleep two pages in!
10. Do you have a motto or
favourite quotation?
My favourite motto has to be
‘The standards you walk past are
the standards you accept’ – you
can probably tell that I’m a clean
freak and I love nothing more
than a sparkling shop floor.
ATLAS PACKAGING
Atlas Packaging Ltd was
founded in 1983 and has grown
from strength to strength to
become a market leader in
the packaging industry. Atlas
has an outstanding reputation
for diversity, reliability and
superior customer service;
this has been gained through
a dedication to training, heavy
investment in modern facilities
and a company-wide drive to
deliver an exceptional standard
across the board.
This on-going commitment
to achieving the company’s
aspirations for development
has embedded design and
innovation into the core of
Atlas Packaging. From basic
designs through to innovative
marketing campaigns, Atlas
is able to design and manufacture
an almost unlimited
range of bespoke packaging
solutions. As well as being able
to offer bespoke design and
manufacturing solutions, we
also have a range of standard
industry-specific products
available to order.
Because you can’t provide
a top service without a top
team, all Atlas employees are
brought on board for their
enthusiasm, skill and spirit.
In return, everyone is offered
a welcoming, enjoyable and
supportive working environment.
The success of the Atlas
team is built on collaboration
and support, and this
has created a strong sense
of community among our
employees.
■■Details 01271 344055 or
atlaspackaging.co.uk
01271 267420 | info@gtales.co.uk
18
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
Are you still typing invoice
data into your accounts?
While entering all purchase
invoices into accounting
software is necessary, there are
downsides to this.
Kevin Salter, chartered
accountant and chartered tax
adviser with Glover Stanbury,
specialises in the application
of IT in business and
offers some helpful hints on
improving productivity:
Disadvantages
Manual entry is labour
intensive – many invoices now
arrive in an electronic format,
eg a PDF attached to an email.
What happens to these? They
are printed out, approved and
passed for rekeying data into
the accounts software before
being filed away.
It is expensive – what
is the direct labour cost
and other overhead costs –
employer’s NI, pension, etc
– of employing someone to do
the boring, repetitive task of
processing purchase invoices?
It is prone to error – while
these are often picked up later
in the accounting process,
it can be time consuming to
track down and correct them.
Common errors include
posting invoices twice, posting
to the wrong supplier account
or miskeying figures.
Inconsistent analysis –
last year the expense may
have been coded to ‘sundry
expenses’, but this year
recorded in ‘subscriptions’,
only to go back into ‘sundry
expenses’ next year.
There may be delays in
Small Business Saturday
passed in December, but we
need to support our small and
local businesses all year round.
When Business Action was
selected as a #SmallBiz100,
we started our ‘From 10 to a
million’ campaign to persuade
more people in North Devon
and Torridge to switch £10
of spending from an online
giant or national company to a
processing the invoices – they
can mount up when bookkeeping
staff go away on leave.
Printing and storage costs –
add up all the costs of printing
them out, filing them away
and storing them for six years
– printer toner or ink, paper,
files, racking or filing cabinets,
rent of storage space, etc.
What is the alternative?
The alternative is electronic
processing and data extraction:
Paper invoices coming in
are scanned or photographed
and uploaded to a web site.
Those received electronically
can simply be forwarded to an
email address.
Data is extracted – invoice
number, supplier name, date,
gross, net, VAT etc. The transaction
can be allocated to an
expense code (or split between
multiple codes in fixed sums
or percentages). This allocation
can be ‘remembered’ for
future similar transactions.
The data is downloaded in
a format suitable for import
straight into the accounts
software. No more keying in.
The paper invoices can be
thrown away – really! The
scanned versions are readily
available and searchable
within the software.
If this can help your
business, Kevin would be
happy to discuss how you
can start processing invoices
electronically.
■■Details 01271 375271 /
01237 471881 or
gloverstanbury.co.uk
local business. If everyone did
this on just one day, it would
keep more than £1 million in
the local economy to support
businesses and jobs here. All
we have to do is pause before
we make any purchase and
consider whether we can buy
from a local business.
And when we do buy locally
to share it with the #10to1m
hashtag. Let’s do it!
ACCOUNTS
Attract customer
Attention!
with your marketing, PR
and communications
u business journalism u technical writing u
u case studies u blogs & online content u
u magazine production u campaigns u
u events u project management u
Call Robert Zarywacz on
01271 879100
25 years of business communication
Z
A
R
Y
W
C
COMMUNICATE IN SPEECH, PRINT & ONLINE
Wills Property Trusts (in will)
Children’s Trusts (in will) Funeral Plans
Probate Lasting Powers of Attorney
A
Wills: £70 Single / £105 Joint
Z
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 19
SUPPORT HEADER
Hotel events support local food producers
The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe
is hosting two events to
support local food producers.
On Monday 24 February, it
is hosting a members, prospective
members and guests
evening for Food and Drink
Devon. Producers, suppliers,
retailers, and café and restaurant
owners are welcome to
attend to find out more about
the benefits of ‘keeping it local’.
Attendees can enjoy a welcome
drink and light supper while
networking. This trade event is
open to local farmers, butchers,
bakers, processors, retailers of
any size and any outlet category.
To book, email membership
@fooddrinkdevon.co.uk
On Friday 28 February, the
Carlton is teaming up with
local farmer Chris Lerwill to
host a Foodie Friday Steak
Night in the Brasserie as part of
Exmoor Food Fest.
Chris will be talking about
his family’s traditional methods
of farming, including sustainable
animal husbandry and the
benefits this brings.
Guests will enjoy the finest
Exmoor Park beef from cattle
selected from breeds that
would have traditionally grazed
on the moors. Generally slower
to mature, they are still raised
in small herds on small family
farms as they have been for
generations. The Lerwill family
have been raising beef on
Exmoor since the 12th century.
➤➤How to make the most of
your levy and the transfer
options available
➤➤Tour of the college facilities,
including conference
and meeting rooms
➤➤How to join Petroc’s Advisory
Groups
➤➤T-levels, Traineeships and
Work placements
➤➤Information about available
funding to upskill your
workforce
Book sessions by contacting
business@petroc.ac.uk
Apprenticeship event
Petroc is holding an apprenticeship
event to support local
and national employers with
apprenticeship vacancies on
Thursday 5 March at its North
Devon Campus.
The aim of the event is to
raise awareness of the benefit
of becoming an apprentice and
to provide an opportunity for
employers to promote specific
apprenticeship vacancies,
All their cattle are hand
reared using non-intensive
methods and benefit from a
high biodiversity structure
and varied diet. The incredibly
short journey from gate to plate
keeps Exmoor Beef ’s carbon
footprint of to a minimum
compared with intensive
livestock farms and maximises
sustainability with the smallest
environmental impact.
■■Details 01271 862446 or
ilfracombecarlton.co.uk
Technology centre launch, business drop-ins and
apprenticeship event
North Devon businesses are
invited to the official launch
of Petroc’s new Centre of
Technology & Innovation
Excellence (Cotie) at its North
Devon Campus in Barnstaple
on Friday 7 February.
Cotie aims to provide local
businesses with the tools to
create their own future. The
innovation centre is built to
inspire collaboration and
creativity, and its up-to-date
facilities include:
➤➤an expertly-equipped
development zone with 3D
manufacturing technology
➤➤a relaxed yet professional
conferencing area
➤➤open-plan hot desks area
complete with high-spec
and fully loaded PCs and
Macs
➤➤a state-of-the-art cleanroom
➤➤two crisply modern design
pods
There will be a welcome and
address from Sean Mackney,
Petroc principal and chief
executive officer, at 8:30am,
although businesses are
welcome to drop in at any time
between 8:00am and 10:00am
Petroc is hosting a number of events of interest to businesses
including the launch of its new technology centre, regular drop-in
sessions and an apprenticeship event
when refreshments will be
available.
■■Register at eventbrite.co.uk/
e/cotie-official-launch-tickets-
90301396909
Drop-in sessions
This session is part of Petroc’s
Business Development Team’s
series of regular drop-ins
where businesses can discuss
everything about skills and
training solutions.
The team have experience
of supporting employers
across the South West to set
up and maintain a learning
culture that will enhance
productivity and help businesses
grow. Topics covered
can include:
➤➤Information, advice and
guidance on upskilling your
workforce
➤➤Short courses and bespoke
training solutions to meet
your business needs
➤➤Recruiting apprentices
(Level 2 to Degree level) to
grow your future workforce
acting as a recruitment event.
Petroc will be inviting:
➤➤Parents/carers and pupils
from local secondary
schools – Year 10, 11 and
sixth form
➤➤The general public
➤➤Current Petroc learners –
from both North and Mid
Devon Campuses
➤➤In addition, parents/carers
of Petroc students will be
sent an invite as they can
play a big role in guiding
careers choices and many
know little of the fantastic
opportunities apprenticeships
offer in the area
Businesses wanting to exhibit
at this event can email marcus.
coyle@petroc.ac.uk to confirm
their space.
If you would like to talk to
a member of Petroc’s Business
Engagement Team about the
various apprenticeship options
that might suit your business
before this event, Marcus can
arrange for a team member to
visit you.
■■To keep informed of the
full range of events Petroc
hosts for local businesses, visit
petroc.ac.uk/events
20
business action | February / March 2020 | business-action.co.uk
Devon and Plymouth Chamber
is hosting a free Access to
Finance Fair on Wednesday
25 March from 8am to 3pm at
Dartington Hall, Totnes.
Challenges of finance
Accessing finance is one of
the single largest issues facing
ambitious businesses and
social enterprises in the South
West. And ensuring your business
plans are ready to apply
for investment successfully is
often the biggest hurdle. The
world of finance is complicated
and often overwhelming.
Event aims
This event aims to unravel
some of the complex routes
to commercial investment
through a series of educational
and impartial seminars
throughout the day, as well as
information and advice from a
wide range of exhibitors from
across the finance and investment
sectors.
Event supporters
The Heart of the South West
Local Enterprise Partnership
(HotSW LEP), Devon
County Council, Plymouth
City Council and the Devon
and Plymouth Chamber of
Commerce recognise the
importance of accessing the
right financial support and
information and are all supporting
this fair.
New funding routes
Historical funding routes have
changed, with high street banks
operating under new lending
guidelines and new entrants
offering a range of viable
alternative options. However,
the market can still be very
confusing to businesses.
SUPPORT
Devon Chamber Access to Finance Fair
As the percentage of businesses
with appropriately
qualified finance directors is
small, it has been increasingly
difficult for smaller growing
businesses to identify appropriate
sources of financial
investment, with the financial
articulation of requirements
and projection of impact
falling largely upon third
parties, such as accountants.
Event sponsors
The event is sponsored by
Western Union and run
by Devon and Plymouth
Chamber of Commerce and
partners, who are providing a
platform for key professionals
from the finance, investment
and accountancy sectors to
educate and inform businesses
on how to source finance in
today’s economy.
Exhibitors
Exhibitors will include US
global financial and communications
company Western
Union, which will be hosting
a seminar; South West-based
commercial finance broker
Start Point Finance, which will
also be presenting; Barclays,
which provides a range of
banking and financial services
for businesses of all sizes;
SWIG Finance, which provides
viable SMEs and start-ups
with access to finance through
dedicated business loan funds
in the South West; and Balance
for Business, a Plymouthbased
commercial financial
broker which has sourced £200
million for clients in the past
five years.
■■Entry to this event is free.
Contact 01752 220471 or visit
devonchamber.co.uk/events
In response to feedback from
North Devon members, Devon
and Plymouth Chamber is
hosting a series of six special
skills and international trade
training courses in Barnstaple.
The courses will support
businesses trading internationally
or wanting to develop trade
internationally and, accredited
by the British Chambers of
Commerce (BCC), cover the
critical steps for any new or
existing international trade.
Courses and dates
The courses scheduled are:
➤➤Introduction to International
Trade – 13 February
➤➤Customs Procedures and
Export Documentation
– 12 March
➤➤Incoterms 2020 – 30 April
➤➤International Trade Payment
Processes – 21 May
➤➤Product Classification &
Rules of Origin – 25 June
➤➤Special Customs Procedures
& Customs Audit Preparations
–16 July
Each course passed will be
certificated and success in
obtaining six credits will lead
to a Foundation Award in
International Trade, certified
by BCC, which is equivalent to
an NVQ2 qualification.
Hobart Manufacturing
The export training sessions
are hosted by chamber member
Hobart Manufacturing in its
Barnstaple factory board room.
International Trade Matters
Training is provided by local
independent company International
Trade Matters.
Who are these courses for?
These courses will suit
anyone involved in importing
and exporting goods and
services, arming you and your
employees with the knowledge
to trade internationally.
The people who attend
courses include owner/proprietors
of small businesses who
manage their own import and
export services through to
employees working in import/
export departments in larger
organisations. Some will attend
all the courses, others just
attend those relevant to their
specific role.
Training your staff to deliver
your products or services right
first time, every time, will lower
your costs and improve the
experience you deliver to your
customers. Choosing an export
training provider such as
Devon and Plymouth Chamber
of Commerce and International
Trade Matters, who both
understand about making a
profit internationally, can really
help your company take off in
your export markets.
Full details of Devon
and Plymouth Chamber’s
international trade training
programme are available
at devonchamber.co.uk/
international-trade-trainingprogramme/
■■Details 01752 220471 or
devonchamber.co.uk
@businessactionm | February / March 2020 | business action 21
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